User Review: Lowe Alpine Contour IV 90+15

Reviewed December 6, 1996 by jwdyck@...

Rating:
Design: internal frame
Size: 90 litres
Number of Pockets: 1
Max. Load Carried: about 120 lbs
Height of Owner: 6'
Price Paid: $350 Canadian

Contrary to what other reviewers here seem to think, I don't like this backpack! If I could afford it, I would sell it ASAP and purchase a better pack. It is however relatively inexpensive compared to other packs of the same size - possibly it's biggest advantage.

Problems I have include -

1. The silly adjustable shoulder strap suspension system jumping off the webbing "rail" under heavy loads - I most recently had this happen carrying a load up into the Bugaboos this summer. It took 2 of us to fix it. In a more serious situation i.e. a steep technical alpine route - you could be hosed!

2. The base of the pack is just too wide. I find gets in the way, especially climbing or when using ski poles.

3. The coating on the interior of the pack cloth (notably in the pockets on the lid) is delaminating.

4. Under heavy loads (i.e. 100+ lbs), which is what I bought the pack to carry, I find the suspension unstable if the load is at all top heavy (i.e you make use of the extension sleeve) (and yes - I know how to pack a backpack!). The pack shifts around on the shoulder straps, unless the top is cranked into your shoulders, then it's uncomfortable.

I may not be the typical user of this pack (often using it to haul large amounts of climbing gear (i.e. 100+ lbs) typically rather than long backpacking trips), but I know I'm not alone in my opinions of this pack. A friend of mine bought the same pack (against my advice) and ended up selling it after a single trip. Just my $0.02.

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